The estate was formerly known as Mount Alexander. An earlier house was illustrated in Neale's Seats, but only the foundations of this remain at a different site. Heiton was the second of a dynasty of 3 generations: after training with his father, he spent time in the office of Burn and Bryce between 1842 and 1848, from whence he evidently acquired experience with Baronial design, leaving to provide a host of fine, imaginative compositions which stand up well in comparison with those of David Bryce. He is known for such masterpieces as Atholl Palace Hotel and Vogrie House, Midlothian. (Historic Scotland)

The house was vacated in 1952, after having housed a school for Polish refugees.

Building Dates

1852

Architects

Andrew Heiton & Son

Category of Risk and Development History

Condition

Ruinous

Category of Risk

High

Exemptions to State of Risk

Field Visits

June 1990, May 2003, 10/07/2009, 15/07/2011, 9/1/2014

Development History

June 1990: External inspection reveals that the house is rapidly becoming a roofless shell, although the masonry remains in good condition. The owner intimates that he would not like to see the house demolished, but is unwilling to support major developments that would invade his estate. He has however shown tentative interest in a more modest scheme which would see the stabilisation of the main shell, with the conversion of a small part into a dwelling. 1996: Historic Scotland reports that the entrance tower is now roofless. October 2001: No change reported. December 2003: Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust reports that the owner is willing to consider expressions of interest.

July 2009: External inspection finds the building in ruinous condition. Some turrets are still slated but otherwise the roof has been lost. Internal floors have collapsed. All windows have been lost. The walls appear to be relatively stable. However, the building is surrounded by mature trees. Carved stonework remains very sharp, in most cases.
An interested restorer continue to pursue potential restoration of the house, latest reports are of stablisation works required to the underground cellar.

July 2011: External inspection finds no significant change from the previous site visit.

9 January 2014: External inspection finds the building remains in much the same condition as seen previously.